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Usually, when I do a beginner workout video, I feel a little like a fraud -- I'm not much of a newbie when it comes to most forms of exercise. However, I've never done Tai Chi in my life, so I think I was a perfect candidate for "Element: Tai Chi for Beginners."

"Tai Chi for Beginners" takes place in the same perfectly lovely setting as the other Element videos, which immediately put me at ease (I'm a sucker for a gorgeous view). And the instructor, Samuel Barnes (founder of the Tai Chi Works studio in Beverly Hills), has a strong, soothing voice that, like in the other videos, comes through in a voice over so as not to distract from the movements.

The video is broken into three sections, giving you the options for a short or long session. The first is Qi Gong, which focuses on your breath and energy flow. The other two are both Tai Chi, one giving you step-by-step instructions and the other putting the moves together in a moving meditation.

Slow, rhythmic movements are the trademark of tai chi. But don't let the lack of sweat fool you. Tai chi may not be a great calorie burner, but it provides so many benefits for your body.

The controlled, flowing motions of tai chi develop a mind/body connection, giving you time to relax your mind and relieve stress. What's more, research has shown that tai chi is excellent for physical balance, as well as mental balance.

Research also suggests that tai chi might have a positive effect on blood pressure, circulation and chronic pain. You can look for tai chi classes through your local community centers or community education programs. There are also many tai chi DVDs and books to help you get started. Once you learn the ropes, however, be sure to step away from your living room or the local high school gym (or wherever classes are held). Part of the tai chi experience is location. Find a relaxing place to practice your moves and get the most out of your tai chi routine.

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Feel a little tired of your same-old, same-old fitness routine? Revolution Health has a list of 10 fitness classes everyone should try at least once.

• Belly Dancing
• Cardio Striptease
• Circus Arts
• Dodgeball
• Fitness Boot Camp
• Nordic Walking
• Self Defense
• Tai Chi
• Urban Rebounding
• Yoqua.

While I don't know if I buy the "everyone should try them" line (goodness knows I'm far too shy for cardio striptease and there's no way you're going to get me on a trapeze), this is certainly a great list of fitness alternatives. When you need to shake up your fitness routine, what fun alternatives do you turn to?

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Let's face it. Most of us have those days where we're tempted to use the old "I have a headache" excuse. But wouldn't it be a heck of a lot more fun just to take care of your sex drive like you take care of other aspects of your health? Try these tips:

• Exercise. Aerobic exercise gets your blood flowing, boosts your energy, and triggers endorphins. And when you incorporate exercise into your daily routine, you'll just feel better about yourself and confidence has everything to do with feeling sexy.
• Relax. A stressed-out mood isn't exactly made for the bedroom. In addition to your cardio workouts, try yoga or tai chi -- they offer mind-body benefits that can help you relax.
• Add a little novelty. And I don't mean novelty in the bedroom (although that's not a bad idea, either). Spend some quality time with your significant other doing something different -- go for a hike, play a game of tennis, or try your hand at a rock climbing wall. Any activities that have you working together will help increase your physical awareness of each other and will strengthen your relationship.
• Get your vitamins. Some supplements, such as Ginkgo biloba, have been linked with sex drive, but the science is sketchy at best. You're better off just sticking to a healthy diet including a wide variety of fruits and vegetables.
  

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